Purpose of Advanced Placement
Advanced Placement (AP) is a nationwide program that is designed to prepare secondary school students for higher education. AP classes provide rigorous, college-level curriculum in various subjects and the opportunity to earn college credits or advanced college standing. The AP program is made possible by the close cooperation of secondary schools, colleges and the College Board.
AP classes are open to all high school students in Lake Washington School District (LWSD). High schools throughout the district offer AP classes in a variety of subjects, including:
- English, literature, psychology
- U.S. history, American government, European history
- Calculus, statistics
- Biology, chemistry, physics
- Foreign languages, i.e. Spanish, French, Japanese
- Studio art, music theory
- Computer science, environmental science
Courses vary from school to school. Availability of courses is based on student interest and enrollment at each school.
The AP experience
Taking AP classes in high school helps students prepare for the college-level work load. Students learn to:
- develop effective study habits
- improve writing skills
- sharpen critical thinking skills
AP also teaches discipline and helps students grow and mature academically. Students report that they enjoy the challenge of the AP program. High school faculty report that AP courses greatly enhance student confidence and academic interest. College faculty find that AP students are far better prepared for serious academic work.
Receiving college credit for AP
Students who meet performance standards on AP exams are eligible to receive college credit. AP exam scores are sent to the colleges of the student’s choice. Colleges determine if credit or advanced standing is granted based on their institutional policies. Thousands of universities world-wide recognize AP achievements and grant credit. Many colleges grant sophomore standing to students who have demonstrated their competence in three or more AP exams.
More information about AP
Contact the school to learn more about AP courses offered at that school and how to enroll. AP courses and descriptions are also listed in the school’s course catalogue, which is often posted on the school website. For general information about AP courses and exams, visit College Board.
Other programs
The district also offers Running Start for high school students in 11th and 12th grade who are interested in attending community and technical colleges to receive college credit.